Issuu

ESTABLISHED 1996

ISSUE NO. 172

OCTOBER 2015

familiesse.co.uk

southeast london

WHAT’S ON Halloween and half term events LITTLE FOOD EXPLORERS Learn to love good food “I’M SCARED OF THE DARK!” Expert tips for tear-free bedtime

online edition

with working website links

WHILE IT’S a big thumbs down to evenings drawing in earlier, there’s fun to come in October, with half term on the horizon, and the spooky thrills of Halloween to look forward to. A tip for you - buy a bag of satsumas and a black marker pen; draw triangular eyes and jagged teeth on the peel, and “ta-da” - you have instant, healthy, mini pumpkin treats for when the children come a-knocking! Robina Cowan, editor

LocalNews email your news to editor@familiesse.co.uk

Need a nanny or babysitter? IN THIS ISSUE 2-3

Local News and Views Affordable nanny fees, a new play club for pre-schoolers, artspaces in southeast London, holiday planning and new code of practice for activity classes

4-5

Half Term and Halloween Workshops and daycamps, pumpkin trails and spooky fun for your little ones

The Book Page New books for parents and children, reviewed by Justine Crow

7-9

Education News Local schools’ news, success at Ark schools, and Let Me Play in southeast London

Little Food Explorers Healthy diet habits are formed during toddler years. Local mother Lucy Thomas encourages little ones to explore and enjoy fruit and vegetables

“I’m Scared of the Dark” As the dark nights draw in, the ‘Three Day Nanny’ Katherine Mewes has advice for parents at bedtime

What’s New Personalised storybooks, strollers for dolls, the fun of five year-olds, and colouring your cares away

Little Masters and Misses is celebrating 30 years of introducing hundreds of pre-interviewed and reference-checked daily nannies and babysitters across southeast London. Owner Debbie was an NNEB nanny herself for eight years before being granted her own employment nanny agency licence in 1985. Over 30 years Debbie has given thousands of families advice and peace of mind, and can now claim to be south London, Kent and Surrey’s longest reigning nanny agency owner. Little Masters and Misses will shortly be launching a new seven-day service for families, and promises a maximum one-off £99 family fee to find a nanny (current fees range from £99 to £300). The agency also helps reliable and professional childcarers find work with local families - for free. Give Debbie a call on 020 8650 3232, or see www.littlemastersandmisses.com for more information.

Little Stars Stay & Play Sydenham High Junior School has launched a new stay and play club for babies and toddlers. Little Stars Stay & Play will take place at the school every Tuesday morning in term time from 9.30am-11am. There’s no need to register, just turn up and join the fun. Weekly themes, baby area, singing, story time, painting & construction activities and much more. The sessions are just £3 per family per session, with refreshments provided, and take place at Sydenham High Junior School, 15 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL. Please call 020 8557 7070 for further information.

The Small Ads

14-19 What’s On Wonderful family events, shows and creative workshops to make the most of half term time

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Families South East PO Box 11591, London SE26 6WB 020 8699 7240, www.familiesse.co.uk, editor@familiesse.co.uk Families South East is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families South East are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

families south east - october 2015

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S P O N S O R E D

A R T I C L E

Holiday homes in Europe

South East London Art Rooms (SELAR) is a brand new live arts venue in the heart of Forest Hill, tucked behind the shop fronts and just five minutes from the station. The space offers live music, comedy, cinema, dancing, art exhibitions, workshops and classes. For children, there are drop-in animation classes every Sunday, a visit from The Man From Story Mountain on 25 October, and exciting Big Draw activities throughout October. SELAR is at 17b Dartmouth Road, Forest Hill SE23 3HN. For the full line-up, see www.selar.co.uk.

Diary dates for starting school in September 2016 The deadline for state secondary school applications is nearly upon us. If you’ve not done so already, time is running out to find local schools, check the admissions criteria, read the latest Ofsted reports and apply for a place online (start at www.gov.uk). Don’t miss the deadline - it’s 31 October. This is also the term when most independent schools hold their Open Days. Families list and update southeast London dates and details online - find them at www.familiesse.co.uk.

Schoolwear from Marks and Spencer

SELAR

Have you heard of NOVASOL holiday homes? Part of Wyndham Worldwide, the company has more than 40 years’ experience in the holiday industry, and offers over 40,000 exclusive holiday homes in 29 countries all over Europe. The most popular destinations are Spain, France, Italy and Croatia, or you could discover other Europe countries including Holland, Cyprus, Sweden, Norway and even Finland and Iceland. Be inspired for your 2016 holiday and find out more about self-catering holidays, cottages, farmhouses, apartments and villas with pools all over Europe. See the NOVASOL UK Facebook page, subscribe to their newsletter and have a look at the website www.novasol.co.uk today; or call 0845 680 5856.

CAA approved

Creative Saturdays In the Creativity Room, children design arts and craft projects and unleash their imagination, with projects based on seasonal events, nature and the seasons, presenting school topics from a creative point of view. The workshops are run by teachers and childcare professionals from 10am to mid-day, for 5-12 yearolds. Parents are welcome to bring their under 5s too and stay for a cup of tea and biscuits. The Creativity Room is in The Old Library, Knights Hill, West Norwood SE27; with workshops £10 as a drop in or less when booked as a term. The fee includes all materials plus a small snack and drink. For more information, see www.thecreativityroom.co.uk.

With so many classes and activities available to children, it is surprising that until now, there’s been no overriding advisory body, and no formal guidelines to help parents choose pre-school and extracurricular activities. An initiative launched by the Children’s Activity Association brings in a new Code of Practice, covering a range of criteria including health and safety, data protection, insurance, training and development. Already an expert in her field, Anne-Marie Martin, founder of the much loved pre-school dance classes, diddi dance, is a founding member and part of the steering committee of the newly established Children’s Activity Association. She told Families: “For the majority of parents, it is understandably assumed that all children’s classes are checked by the local authority and follow formal guidelines but unfortunately this is not always the case. I am so proud to be part of the Children’s Activity Association, helping to give parents peace of mind and reassurance that they are choosing the right class for their little ones. I have been running diddi dance for over 10 years and to be able to give back to the activities industry by helping to establish safe, thorough and essential guidelines is fantastic.” Parents will be able to identify classes that have been accredited by the Children’s Activity Association by the logo on class websites and promotional literature. For diddi dance classes, see www.diddidance.com or call 07973 982 790.

South East London BOOK A FREE TRIAL CLASS TODAY! 020 3793 6843 www.freedomacademy.co.uk info@freedomacademy.co.uk

Ages 3 yrs - 19 yrs

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october 2015 - families south east

INSPIRE YOUR CHILD THIS Autumn - Instrument learning -Fun-filled workshops - Book 1/2 day to the full week! PERFORM

Award-winning Ofsted-registered music activity playscheme for 4-11 year olds.

Balham | Brockley | Hampstead | Harborne

EXPLORE LEARNING

GREENWICH MARKET

Half term workshops and activity camps

www.thestringsclub.org | 0121 369 1950

TENNIS-4-KIDS

ALICE IN WONDERLAND WITH PERFORM

27-29 October, St CLEMENTS CHURCH HALL, Barry Road, East Dulwich SE22, 07877 391005, www.tennis-4-kids.com A fun-filled introduction to tennis tailored for 3-4, 5-6 and 6-8 year-olds. Children will use small rackets, sponge balls and a scaled down indoor court. Book first; term time classes also available for children aged up to 11.

26-28 October, VARIOUS VENUES, 020 7255 9120, www.perform.org.uk Tumble down the rabbit hole into the topsy-turvy world of Wonderland with Perform for three fun-packed days of drama, dance and singing in Alice In Wonderland. Together with a team of experienced theatre professionals, the children will combine live original music, inspirational dance, quick witted improvisation and colourful costumes into a show-stopping performance on the final day. Ages 4-7, book first.

SPARK4KIDS AUTUMN CODING WORKSHOPS October 2015 at Belair House, DULWICH, 020 8090 1444, www.spark4kids.com Spark4Kids autumn holiday workshops are designed to engage children in computer coding, games development as well as Minecraft in a fun and exploratory environment. Ages 8+, all levels from beginner onwards welcome. Term-time sessions are also available - see website for details.

‘FRIGHTFUL FINGERS’ ELECTRONIC KEYBOARD WORKSHOPS Tiny Tots age 2.5-3

Little Aces Junior Champs Grand Slammers age 3-4

age 5-7

age 8-11

fun filled tennis games and activities indoors with sponge balls and mini tennis rackets

FREE introductory session phone

07877 391005

www.tennis-4-kids.com email: gordon@tennis-4-kids.com

26-30 October in HERNE HILL, SYDENHAM, BATTERSEA and STREATHAM, 0800 107 7949, www.funkymonkey.info Funky Monkey’s super spooky Halloween themed ‘taster’ music courses will teach children to read, play and write notes C-A, with keyboard technique and countless music-based activities. All equipment provided. Ages 4-8 beginners, 10am-2pm each day, £40/ £35 sibling discount.

CREATE AN ADVENTURE EXPLORERS

THE STRINGS CLUB - HOLIDAY CAMP! 26-30 October in BROCKLEY, 0121 369 1950, www.thestringsclub.org The Strings Club’s award-winning holiday camp returns for half term. Packed full of high-quality, fun-filled unmissable musical experiences, The Strings Club’s Ofsted-registered holiday camps will engage and inspire your child and help them to develop a love for music as well as essential life skills. The camps are an ideal introduction to music for both complete beginners and budding string players - with free instrument hire included. Each day is wonderfully different and includes exclusive musical workshops and activities alongside high-quality guitar, violin and ukulele classes led by top strings teachers. Each weekly camp ends with a grand concert. Ages 4-11 years, 10am-3.30pm with early Early Bird and Late Clubs available. Book by half or full day, or all week; child care vouchers accepted.

INTENSIVE TOUCH TYPING School holidays and termtime classes in SYDENHAM, 020 7515 1707, www.yes-tuitionandtraining.co.uk Learn a new skill with a touch typing courses run by YES. Children find them fun, and they work - most children are tapping away proficiently in just ten hours. Sessions can be booked to fit around other holiday commitments so children can progress at their own pace.

26-28 October, SOUTH LONDON SCOUT CENTRE, Grange Lane, Dulwich SE21 7LH, www.nuttyschildrensparties.co.uk Popular local children’s entertainment company Nutty’s Children’s Parties build on the success from their summer workshop this year and bring you Create An Adventure - Explorers! There’ll be three days of storytelling, drama games, arts and crafts, singing and running around, resulting in a unique Nutty’s Adventure! Ages 5-8 years, 9am-3.30pm each day, £100 per child for all three days, 20% sibling discount. For more info, please email danny@nuttyschildrensparties.co.uk or call Danny on 0788 405 0954.

SPECIAL OFFER: FREE Nutty’s CD with every booking! Just quote ‘Families/half term’ when booking.

FREE EXPLORE LEARNING WORKSHOPS 27 October in GREENWICH, SYDENHAM, NEW CROSS GATE and BRIXTON, www.explorelearning.co.uk The English and maths tuition provider will be holding free and fun maths, arithmetic, problem solving and personalised sessions, giving families the opportunity to meet an experienced tutor and see how exciting learning can be, as well as discuss their child’s individual needs to help unlock their full potential. Ages 5-14, 12noon to 4pm, free but book first as places are limited.

NIMBLE ARTS HOLIDAY CLUB 26-30 October, HEBER PRIMARY SCHOOL, East Dulwich SE22, www.nimblearts.co.uk Make your own Haunted House, meet some real life creepy crawlies, take home your own spell book, take part in a Camelot-style tournament or solve an Egyptian mystery. Nimble Arts workshops pack each day with fun while offering children free choices at playtime in a safe and friendly environment, run by DBS checked staff. Ages 4-11 in age-appropriate groups. Book by half or full day, or the full week. Wrap-around hours and sibling discounts available.

SUPER CAMPS 26-30 October, St DUNSTAN’S COLLEGE, Stanstead Road SE6 4TY, 01235 467300, www.supercamps.co.uk Fun, action-packed and stimulating day camps for children aged 4-14. £45 per day, £180 for the week.

FIT FOR SPORT

FUNKY MONKEY

families south east - october 2015

26-30 October, various venues including DULWICH, BERMONDSEY, DOWNHAM and GIPSY HILL, 0845 456 3233, www.fitforsport.co.uk Fit for Sport’s Ofsted-registered holiday childcare activity camps are designed to engage and educate children through activity, with swimming, ballgames, active challenges and arts and crafts based on seasonal themes. Standard day 9.30am-4.30pm with extended hours available. Ages 4-12 years, bookable by half or full day, or weekly blocks - see the website for full details.

familiesse.co.uk

Halloween events SPOOKY FUN IN GREENWICH MARKET

CRAFT MORNING WITH WIGWAM TOYS

30 October, GREENWICH MARKET, Greenwich SE10 9HZ, www.greenwichmarketlondon.com Greenwich Market is a great place to get ready for Halloween. Book in for the free costume making workshops, get your face painted, listen to spooky stories and do some Halloween dancing to the ghoulish music. There is lots of family fun with prizes for the best carved pumpkin, best dressed child and a best dressed beastly dog show. It’s spooktacular! 12noon to 8pm.

31 October, WIGWAM TOY SHOP, 109 Rosendale Road, West Dulwich SE21 8EZ, 020 8676 4815, www.wigwamfamily.co.uk Bring your children to enjoy making Halloween themed crafts at Wigwam toy shop. The Dulwich Bakery will also be supplying yummy Halloween cupcakes. 10am-1pm, free drop-in.

HALLOWEEN HARRY POTTER 31 October, DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY, Gallery Road SE21 7AD, 020 8693 5254, www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk An evening of themed gallery tales, M. C. Escher’s amazing worlds, an art workshop and a showing of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. From 6pm, £15 children, £24 adults.

PUMPKIN CARVING AT ELTHAM PALACE 26-31 October, ELTHAM PALACE & GARDENS, Court Yard, Eltham SE9 5QE, 020 8294 2548, www.english-heritage.org.uk Creepy crafts and shocking stories await at eerie Eltham Palace. Show off your spooktacular costumes, carve a pumpkin and frighten the fearless staff. Admission £13 adults, £7.80 children, £33.80 families, English Heritage members free.

FIREPOWER GHOST TOURS 30 + 31 October, Firepower at the ROYAL ARTILLERY MUSEUM, Royal Arsenal, Woolwich SE18 6ST, 020 8312 7103, www.firepower.org.uk A family-friendly ghost tour of the museum and grounds, complete with spooky stories and finishing with bangers and mash to warm away the chills. Ages 8+, 6pm start, tickets £12 adults, £8 children, book first.

GHOST SHIPS AND SPOOKY SHADOWS 30 October, CUTTY SARK, King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT, 020 8858 2698, www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark Create a spooky shadow-puppet show with ghost-ships, sea monsters, and your own Halloween puppet to take home and play with. 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm.

PUMPKIN PARADE AT FULHAM PALACE 30 October, FULHAM PALACE, Bishop’s Avenue, Fulham SW6 6EA, 020 7736 3233, www.fulhampalace.org Halloween themed crafts and face painting - bring a pre-carved pumpkin and any musical instruments or noisy objects, and make some noise to scare away the ghouls on a pumpkin parade around the park at 4pm. 2-4.30pm, free with admission, small charge for face painting.

HAUNTED HALLOWEEN AT THE MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD 31 October, V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD, Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green E2 9PA, 020 8983 5200, www.museumofchildhood.org.uk Halloween can be dead fun! Join the party with some of the Museum’s quirkiest toys this ‘dia de Muertos’. Come dressed in your spooky best. 11am - 3.30pm, tickets £15.

DISCO KIDS: MONSTER MUNCH 1 November, ALBANY THEATRE, Douglas Way, Deptford SE8 4AG, 020 8692 4446, www.thealbany.org.uk Unleash your most terrifying dance moves at Castle Albany in a scary boogie spectacular, featuring DJ Jean Genie spinning some spooky tunes to get you shaking in your boots. 2-5pm, under 7s, family ticket £20.

HALLOWEEN DISCO 30 + 31 October, GAMBADO INDOOR PLAYCENTRE, NatWest Sports Ground, Copers Cope Road, Beckenham BR3 1NZ, 020 8622 6910, www.gambado.com/events A spooktacular disco, fancy dress competition, fun and games, face painting and unlimited juice. 6.30-8.30pm, tickets £10 for one adult plus child, book first.

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WITCHES AND WIZARD ACADEMY AT LEEDS CASTLE 24 October, LEEDS CASTLE, near Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL, 01622 767866, www.leeds-castle.com Join the Witches and Wizard Academy, and follow the children’s trail throughout the grounds for a chocolate prize at the end. A fancy dress competition takes place daily, while spellbinding stories will entertain younger children. Entry included with admission fee, (a small additional charge will apply for the trail).

WITCH ACADEMY 24-31 October, Coca-Cola LONDON EYE, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7JB, www.londoneye.com Little witches and wizards in training will enrol into the class of 2015, where haunting hosts will guide them on an interactive tour on the London Eye, featuring a series of sorcerers’ spells and rituals, 135 metres above the capital. Every graduate will receive a special activity pack as they officially join the Witch Academy Alumni. Ages 4-9, tickets from £16.65.

HAUNTED HALLOWEEN AT HEVER CASTLE 24 October to 1 November, HEVER CASTLE, Hever, Kent TN8 7NG, 01732 865224, www.hevercastle.co.uk Creepy craft workshops, ghostly storytelling and ghoulish quizzes mean there’s never a dull moment, with prizes for the best Halloween costume each day. Those brave enough to follow the spooky trail can search for clues hidden around the gardens to win a terrible treat! Gardens open 10.30am; Castle opens 12 noon. Family admission £42.50.

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KESR: FRIGHT NIGHT EXPRESS 27-30 October, KENT & EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY, Tenterden Town Station, Station Road, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HE, 01580 765155, www.kesr.org.uk A week of tricks and treats for the whole family, including pumpkin carving and face-painting, plus unlimited journeys between Tenterden and Bodiam Stations on steam and diesel trains. Family tickets £49.50. On Friday 30 and Saturday 31 October, the Fright Night Express will feature ghostly goings on at stations with a firework display and a few surprises along the way. Fares £17, book first.

WITCHES IN THE WOODS AT PENSHURST 17 October - 1 November, PENSHURST PLACE ESTATE, Penshurst, Tonbridge, Kent TN11 8DG, 01892 870307, www.penshurstplace.com All is not as it seems at Penshurst Place this Halloween, as Wicked Witches occupy bell tents in the Wild Woods for spooky takes and marshmallow roasting around the camp fire and the ancient stone buttery plays host to Hands on History as a Magna Carta baron is bought to life and all forms of spellbinding Medieval Medicines demonstrated. Along with petrifying pumpkin carving, cupcake decorating workshops, fancy dress competitions and creepy crafts there’s a range of activities taking place over October half term for all the family to enjoy. See the website for full listings.

GHOULISH GROOMBRIDGE 17+18 and 24-31 October, GROOMBRIDGE PLACE, Groombridge Hill, Groombridge, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 9QG, 01892 861 444, www.groombridgeplace.com Witness the spooky adventures of Hansel and Gretel as they escape the clutches of the Evil Witch, only to stumble into another monstrous nightmare - the Monster Mash Halloween Party! Join in with creepy crafts, gruesome games, fearsome face painting, devilish dancing and playtime in the walled gardens. 10am-5pm, admission £35.95 for families - 10% discount for pre-booked tickets.

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Halloween Fun in Greenwich Market Spooktacular Fun Friday 30 October, 12 noon – 8pm Children get kitted out for Halloween in the Market. Free kids costume workshop – book with misslibbyrose@gmail.com. Face painting, scary fashion show, spooky storytelling, best dressed and best carved pumpkin prizes, and a beastly dog show – it’s a scream! Adults can have a devil of a time at the late night feast. Open Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 5.30pm Many shops open 7 days a week

greenwichmarketlondon.com

Supporting the Royal Navy since 1694

october 2015 - families south east

The Bookseller Crow

is a fantastic, volume stuffed shop run by some of the most knowledgeable bookworms in the business. Call in for the feel of a real bookshop, or if you’re too busy, pick up the phone or point your mouse at their website for a fast mailorder service. Justine Crow recommends this month’s best titles. One or two of you out there may know that I am a bookseller-cum-swimming teacher, which plays havoc with the LinkedIn algorithm. Actually, I’d start up my own book-pool networking platform called DippedIn if I thought I wasn’t the only crossbreed of this type in the UK, possibly the entire universe. My curious double life explains why when you catch me behind the counter, I always look clean, albeit somewhat pruney. It also accounts for the shy flutters of recognition I get from small people who signal our connection with a discreet hand wave wherever I go. It’s like being a celebrity without the fame. Or the money. “That’s my swimming teacher,” goes the conspiratorial hiss from the children’s section, “but she can also read..” 101 THINGS TO DO WITH AN A4 SHEET OF PAPER, edited by Judith Hannam - Kyle rrp £9.99. I’m good at other things too. F’rinstance I am an expert on headlice, though obviously I’d prefer to be an expert on the ski slopes at San Moritz. Of the many things I am rubbish at - and don’t get me started - is anything to do with paper that doesn’t involve a pen. Though that is subjective. But I digress. Infamous in my household for shonky gift wrapping, nobody needs to read the labels to identify which presents are from me because the cat could do a better job. There’s no excuse for mediocrity in the folding, snipping and gluing department here. In fact, though I would deny I am in any way whatsoever minded to think in the direction of a certain festive season about to drive retail, the media and all mother-in-laws into a LED flashing frenzy, I reckon even I could just about manage to gift-wrap a ream of HP 80gsm to go with this book. Just so long as I can find the end of the sticky tape. 100 PAPER SPACESHIPS TO FOLD & FLY by Jerome Martin - Usborne rrp £8.99. When I was young, I was really envious of those who could wolf-whistle very loud, ride a bike with no hands and make paper planes that actually flew. They’re probably all working for the Sun now. Meanwhile, I don’t need to bust my nails on the elusive end of the tape here because none is required with this ingenious pad of tear-out space craft plus, there’s no danger of anybody’s eyes being had out with me at the controls. CUTAWAY COLOURING - Haynes rrp 6.99. One for the miniature, or indeed huge, petrol-head in your family, while I’m not a massive fan of the colouring book revolution (though far be it for me to bite the hand that feeds), I rather like the way the Haynes Manual has re-invented itself as the go-to for all your practical needs, from fatherhood to keeping sheep (remarkably similar), and is no longer merely for learning how to lever the battery out of a Triumph Stag. MANHOOD, A GUIDEBOOK FOR MEN by Steven Biddulph Vermilion rrp £9.99. His seminal Raising Boys was a revelation and relief for many, not least the recently born recipients of the subsequent parental enlightenment, and though he is adept at thoroughly understanding both genders, I think he does puppies better than kittens. In this updated edition, he aims his analytic head-torch at the fully grown dog. BREASTFEEDING MADE EASY by Geraldine Miskin Vermilion rrp £14.99. Now I was reeeeaally good at this. While in truth it isn’t a life-skill that extends into the long-term, I’m glad to say I cracked the bosom method and never had to get up in the night to spoon out fortified milk powder whilst hunting for a hygienic teat - will Coffeemate and a wipe on the dressing gown be okay? It wasn’t easy but I was lucky enough to participate in the kind of bold pre-emptive NHS workshop that has probably long since been thrown out with the bathwater and today I fear detailed support such as Miskin’s is rare - she even publishes a number to call if you are desperate. But trust me, if you stick at it, you’ll have strapping babies who quickly grow into fine strong children who are brilliant at beating each other up. STRESS-FREE FEEDING by Lucy Cooke & Laura Webber Little Brown rrp £9.99. Ah. But don’t believe for a second that being nurtured on breast milk means your toddler will eat broccoli or, as in my son’s case, anything green that isn’t a Haribo. And as for the myth that my palate influences my children’s? I would rather depilate Simon Cowell’s back than

dob ketchup on my plate (sorry, did I put you off lunch?) but Trasha, a long-time vegetarian despite her fangs, can’t stomach dinner without it. I agree with the authors’ attitude here - don’t talk food down. Why is fruit offered with regret? - “Sorry, no pudding today but you can have an apple.” And don’t use food as a reward unless you want food issues... CEREAL KILLER CAFE COOKBOOK by Gary & Alan Keery Ebury rrp £12.99. So thanks to his vegetable aversion, our son lived off Frosties until he was ten as it was the only way to get vitamins into him. We never judged as we didn’t want to create any food hang-ups but I was a Napoleon with the toothbrush and he still has no fillings to this day. While absolutely not condoning sugary wheat derivatives (actually, I dislike cereal nearly as much as I hate Heinz on chips), it is the ideal generalisation warning klaxon - reluctant eater nosebag and this cookbook shows there is more to Ricicles than you think. THE TALES OF OLGA DA POLGA by Michael Bond & Catherine Rayner - Oxford rrp £12.99. I’d completely forgotten all about the adventures of guinea pig Olga, her boyfriend Boris and owner Miss Sawdust and now I’m reminded of my sister as well. No, it’s not because of her cuddly cheeks and furry waddle - s’okay, Families mag doesn’t get quite as far as Dubai so she won’t read that - but clever Olga was one of her absolute heroines. You see, my uncle Dave and aunty Jane used to have guinea pigs living under their sofa, including one called Teabag due to his partiality for the cuppa the uninitiated innocently placed on the carpet. As we hung our heads over the edge and watched, we found their upside down world infinitely more fascinating than our own. HERE COME THE TROLLS by Ron Butlin - Birlinn rrp £9.99. Not the spineless internet variety. Good old fashioned into everything monkey-trousered trolls looking suspiciously like the aforementioned modern cornflake hipsters above, beards and all. I think it is time to reclaim the troll and rebrand the impotent nasties on social media with a new name. FOLLOWING THE TRACTOR by Susan Steggall - Frances Lincoln rrp £6.99. My son’s first word was “Dacterrrrrr..” and I’m intrigued by the craze for these lumbering vehicles in our toddler townies. Two hundred years ago, before the invention of the combustion engine, did little boys obsess over wooden carts? Meanwhile, the author’s torn-paper style is very effective in conveying the sturdy usefulness of these exotic farm workhorses. ACTUAL SIZE by Steve Jenkins - Frances Lincoln rrp £7.99. It’s spider season right? And for all you phobics out there convinced that the puny 5mm creature in the sink is out to get you, I suggest you flick through these pages to the Goliath birdeater tarantula which is 30 of yer English centimetres long. With each example depicted as big as it really is, this may be a book to help kids deal with the concept of scale but the teeny weeny pygmy mouse lemur (about the size of half a sandwich), a shark’s tooth, an elephant’s foot and the jaws of a saltwater croc so big it spreads across a fold-out page, don’t half put things into perspective. THE 50 STATES by Gabrielle Balkan, illustrated by Sol Linero Flying Eye rrp £20. One of my failsafe antidotes for insomnia is to name them all but I can’t ever get past Kansas. Flags and presidents at the back, reading my way through each state here, I forgot this is actually a children’s book, the detail is so gripping. No kidding, my book of the year so far. Hey toddler tractor lovers, did you know John Deere came from Illinois? If you go to Idaho, you can visit the Potato Museum but in Vermont’s capital, Montpelier, there’s no MacDonalds! Mini biographies of inhabitants both contemporary and historical provide context with some real surprises - Beyoncé from Texas? Spielberg from Arizona? - and suddenly I am in Wyoming. Perspiring chlorine after serving a customer using my swimming pool teacher’s voice by mistake - “PIN PLEASE!” - I pause at the biography of Martha Jane Cannery aka Calamity Jane, scout, frontierswoman and Wild West show star, and wonder with a sigh if it’s not too late for a career change.

The Bookseller Crow, 50 Westow St. Crystal Palace, London SE19 3AF Telephone: 020 8771 8831 email: info@booksellercrow.co.uk www.booksellercrow.co.uk 6

families south east - october 2015

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education news A new headmistress for James Allen’s Girls’ School (JAGS) Mrs Sally-Anne Huang MA (Oxon), MSc, PGCE, has been appointed new head of JAGS from September 2015. She told Families: “Many will tell you that headship is lonely; that has never been my experience. My first eight years of headship have been all about being with people. Heads get to share aspirations, triumphs and difficulties too. It’s a privilege. As an Oxford graduate, and student of literature, I want pupils to love learning for its own sake and to strive for excellence. But true education always comes back to people. To support the young on individual journeys so they are ready to lead purposeful, happy adult lives. As soon as I set foot in JAGS, I knew that this was at the heart of the school’s ethos too. Known for its academic excellence, JAGS is so much more. It is a school with heart and conscience and one which reaches out beyond its own community. I am looking forward to moving to Dulwich with my family and to working at JAGS. Most of all, I am looking forward to getting to know all the people.” This autumn’s senior and prep school Open Morning for prospective parents and girls will be held on 10 October, with an additional open morning for 11+ only on 12 November. For admission enquiries, call 020 8693 1181 or see www.jags.org.uk.

www.thameschristiancollege.org.uk

Smaller school. Bigger opportunities.

Look who’s talking about Deptford Green! Deptford Green School in New Cross has been mentioned in some very important speeches in the last few weeks. Firstly the newly elected Lewisham MP, Vicky Foxcroft mentioned the school in the House of Commons in reference to working with Deptford Green’s Year 10 student who was elected as Lewisham’s Young Mayor. Then Sir Michael Wilshaw, Chair of Ofsted said “We will always support headteachers like Bob Ellis who has been recognised for his effective leadership as the school continues its upward journey.” Bob Ellis, the community school’s executive headteacher, had been invited as a special guest to the launch of the new Ofsted framework due to his success in turning the school around, which Ofsted noted in their last report. This speech was particularly important as it recognised that community comprehensive schools can improve dramatically without academisation. “We received more first choice applications than ever last year. As this autumn we also had our best ever GCSE results with another rise in English baccalaureate results too, we invite everyone to come and see for themselves what makes Deptford Green an increasingly sought after school,” said Mr Ellis. The school is hosting a final open evening on 7 October from 6-8pm. Families who apply by the 31 October deadline will find out if they receive a place on 1 March 2016. For more information, see www.deptfordgreen.lewisham.sch.uk.

Personal attention. Great results. Affordable. Scholarships available

OPEN MORNING THURSDAY 5th NOVEMBER 11.00-13.00 For full list of open mornings, enrolment and fee details contact 020 7228 3933 Thames Christian College, London SW11 2HB. Five minutes’ walk from Clapham Junction.

Let me play One in three pupils ‘hate exercise’ and risk starting secondary school without basic movement skills, while a third of staff lack confidence in teaching PE, according to a Youth Trust survey. In September, leading youth training organisation Let Me Play started going into primary schools in London and the South East to teach children fundamental movement skills - travelling skills, object control skills, and balance movements which lay the foundation for physical literacy. Let Me Play is also boosting teacher confidence in teaching PE and sport, through lesson plans, assessment sheets, work-out cards, exercises and teaching resources. Read more at www.letmeplay.co.uk.

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NEW *Little Stars* Stay & Play group for all 0-4 years Tuesday mornings in term time - contact us for more details

Open Mornings for 2016 entry Junior Weds 7 October Tues 3 November

Senior & Sixth Form 9.30-11am Weds 4 November 9.30-11am 9.30-11am Tues 17 November 9.30-11am

15 & 19 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net

020 8557 7000 admissions@syd.gdst.net

october 2015 - families south east

education news Independent Schools Open Days Families list and update southeast London dates and details online find them at www.familiesse.co.uk

Inspirational women, successful girls

Alleyn’s

When 17 year-old student Jessy McCabe raised the issue of not a single women featuring among the 63 composers studied for Edexcel A-level Music, she started a national debate about how to address gender imbalance in the school curriculum. While this was being discussed in the media (including comments by the Head of Streatham & Clapham High School, who is a music specialist), SCHS hosted events with two inspirational women who are leaders in their fields. The remarkable Wasfi Kani OBE, co-founder of Grange Park Opera, was guest speaker at the school’s Speech Day (pictured). The prior evening, SCHS welcomed sportswoman Mikaela Austin to its Sports Honours Dinner. Last year it celebrated girls and technology on Ada Lovelace Day, while in the field of economics, where women are underrepresented, SCHS Sixth-Form student Ellen To won a top prize in the prestigious Royal Society of Economics Essay Competition. Streatham & Clapham High School celebrates the achievements of women throughout the curriculum and extra-curricular activities. For admissions information and to register for open days, go to www.schs.gdst.net. • • • • • •• •• •• • • • • • • •• •• •• •

Junior School The best start for boys and girls alleyns.org.uk

Best ever results for Ark pupils Pupils at Ark primary schools posted their best ever key stage 2 results this year with 72% getting a ‘Level 4’ in reading, writing and mathematics, the expected level age 11. This represents a five point rise on last year’s average of 67%. In comparison, primary schools nationally only improved by two points. There was also a five point rise for Ark pupils getting ‘Level 5’, above expected levels at age 11. To put these figures in context, around half of Ark pupils in year 6 are eligible for the Pupil Premium and a large proportion of pupils start primary school behind expected levels. Lucy Heller, Chief Executive of Ark, said: “We’re pleased to see our pupils do even better than last year. But we are not complacent, we still want to see every child leave primary school ready for secondary which is why we are opening two new primary schools in September and expanding our work in the early years, which are so critical.” Read more and find a list of schools at www.arkschools.org

Bromley High celebrates stunning A level results Bromley High School celebrated another year of outstanding academic achievement. 87% of results achieved A*-B grades and 22% of grades were A*s. The school’s strength in Science and Mathematics was evident with 100% candidates in Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics and Information Technology achieving A*-B grades - a feat matched in Classics, Drama, German and Government and Politics. Headmistress, Angela Drew, praised the leaving Upper Sixth for their hard work and self-motivation. “They are a fantastic group of girls who led the school with great style and verve and showed that you can be committed to the huge range of new experiences and responsibilities offered in the Sixth Form and still excel in the classroom.” Star performers abounded. Amongst them were Laura Kruszewski, who achieved 4 A*s in Maths, Biology, Physics and Chemistry to read Vet Science at Cambridge, Ellen Birke with 3 A*s in Maths, Further Maths and Geography to read Mathematics at Durham, Anna Myers (Head Girl) with 3 A*s in Maths, Economics and Geography to read Land Economy at Cambridge, Lottie Jenkins with 3 A*s in Geography, English and French to read Geography at Exeter and Sarah Christie with A*s in Politics, English and Extended Project and an A in Latin to read Historical, Social and Political Sciences at Cambridge. For more news, admissions information and to register for open days, go to www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net.

Open days Saturday September – 12 noon Thursday26 8 October 1.3010am – 3.00pm Thursday 8 October 1.30 – 3.00pm Tuesday 10 November 1.30 – 3.00pm Tuesday 10 November 1.30 – 3.00pm London’s top co-educational prep school as ranked by Sunday Times 2014 ‘Top 100 Prep Schools’ national list

families south east - october 2015

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E V E R Y M O M E N T M AT T E R S Senior School Open Mornings 2015 Saturday 26 September Saturday 7 November These mornings run from 0930 to 1130 with the Headmaster speaking at 0940 & 1045 !"#$%&'()%*+,-%./%,(-''-%0123 Wednesday 14 October 2015 - 1430 to 1630 Stanstead Road, London, SE6 4TY

www.stdunstans.org.uk

BROMLEY HIGH SCHOOL

Exceptional Education Since 1883

OPEN MORNING W h e r e

G i r l s

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Saturday October 3rd 2015, 9.30 am - 1.00 pm

SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING Tuesday 13th October 2015 at 6.45 pm

Fees assistance & Scholarships available in the Senior School

PRE BOOKING ESSENTIAL Tel: 020 8781 7000

admissions@bro.gdst.net www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net

Charity number: 312747

Developing independent thinkers and learners Prep School Open Days Saturday Tuesday

3 October 3 November

10 am - 12 noon 9 am - 10.45 am

Streatham & Clapham Preparatory School Nursery and Prep School (girls 3-11) Wavertree Road, SW2 3SR 020 8674 6912 prep@schs.gdst.net

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october 2015 - families south east

family life

Little Food Explorers - healthy diet habits are formed during toddler years Lucy Thomas, a local mother, has helped to launch a national campaign to encourage toddlers to learn to love good food in the early years so they grow up to be healthy, little food explorers. Lucy has worked with Organix to produce a series of short #LoveGoodFood videos showing her with a group of toddlers exploring, enjoying and sharing the wonderful world of fruit and vegetables, from broccoli to bananas, through play, rhymes, song and storytelling. She has also helped to produce a free download guide, the Little Book of Good Food - Toddlers & Families. It’s packed with advice and tips for parents on providing a healthy diet for little ones as they continue their exciting journey with food through the early years and beyond.

Why is a love of good food so important for toddlers now? Childhood obesity is on the increase and the UK faces a growing crisis concerning children’s health and diet preferences. According to new research carried out by Leeds Beckett University, nearly a quarter of British children under the age of five are overweight or obese - the second-highest proportion of overweight under-fives in 28 countries studied. This is hugely significant because the toddler years are a key time to influence diets and a time when it is possible to establish lifelong healthy eating habits and a love of food.

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families south east - october 2015

Encouraging little ones to explore and enjoy fruit and veg As your baby grows into a toddler, it’s a time of rapid change and extraordinary development - and this is the time when diet habits and preferences start to form. So just when you think you know what your toddler likes to eat, and you are confident they are eating a healthy, balanced diet, your little one’s growing independence with food means they might take matters into their own hands - perhaps refusing to eat at mealtimes or becoming fussy about food. Lucy Thomas’ passion is inspiring children to enjoy fruit and veg, and as author and founder of ‘Mange Tout’ (www.mangetoutkids.com), her methods have been recommended by experts from Great Ormond Street Hospital. Lucy says, “It can be challenging for parents to get their little ones to eat fruit and veg, however, toddlers are naturally curious about the world around them so helping them learn about the colours, the funny shapes, smells and textures of a variety of fruit and vegetables in a fun environment and away from mealtime can really help get them excited about food. As parents we tend to think about food as just eating, but we forget the simple pleasure that children can get from peeling their own banana for example, enjoying how it feels to peel off the skin.”

Fun with food These are some fun ideas from Lucy to help encourage your little one to explore and enjoy fruit and veg: 1. Encourage a wider interest in food, without asking them to eat or taste anything. Get them to smell, kiss, lick or crunch. You can show your child how to smell strawberries and lick one to feel the bumpiness of the seeds on the outside. 2. Give them lots of opportunities to touch and handle fresh fruit and vegetables, whether out shopping, at home cooking or even growing food. This will help them be more relaxed and interested in food. 3. Get a little messy - let your little one squash a tomato or squeeze an orange while you are cooking. If they feel comfortable handling a food they are more likely to want to eat it. 4. Let your child explore different textures of food by juicing, blending, grating or mashing foods with your help. 5. Explore vegetables raw as well as cooked, it’s a great way to overcome a dislike of a vegetable. For example, small crunchy florets of cauliflower for dipping are delicious - and taste very different from cooked cauliflower.

Healthy eating for toddlers Toddlers need nutritious foods to promote healthy growth. Their early experiences with food affect their daily wellbeing and their long term growth and development, as well as the creation of healthy food habits. According to Dr Frankie Phillips, Nutrition Advisor to Organix, encouraging and starting to make healthier food choices in the toddler years will make it much easier later on for children to eat a good balance of foods. So what does a healthy diet for very young children look like and what’s the right portion size? Dr Frankie Phillips suggests following these tips: •

•

• • •

•

Regular healthy meals and snacks - toddlers need to snack as their tummies aren’t big enough to take on board enough energy and nutrients from just three meals a day Plenty of choice and balance - a varied diet containing a selection of foods will provide the essential nutrients they need Each day aim for five portions of starchy foods, five portions of fruit and vegetables, three portions of dairy foods and two portions of meat, fish, eggs, nuts and pulses (three if vegetarian) Lots of tastes in a range of different fruit and vegetables Different colours, tastes and textures to add variety to the diet ‘Me-sized’ portions. There’s no such thing as an ideal portion size for all children, as size, growth and physical activity levels vary Not adding extra sugar or salt - too much salt isn’t good for toddler’s kidneys and sugary food encourages a sweet tooth and can cause tooth decay Enough healthy drinks to keep them well-hydrated.

Find out more To download a copy of The Organix Little Book of Good Food - Toddlers & Families visit www.organix.com/lovegoodfood and you can watch the Love Good Food video at: #lovegoodfood. Bon appétit!

familiesse.co.uk

Sleeping boy: Freeimages.com/Carla Peroni

family life

Dark nights: what to say when

your child claims ‘I’m scared’ at bedtime By Kathryn Mewes I am sure you remember as a child the ‘delay tactics’ used to prevent bedtime arriving. Times have changed but children haven’t. They all push their boundaries and often the word ‘scared’ causes a strong reaction from a parent. The more you react, the more the word ‘scared’ is used. The dark is a baby’s favourite place and this doesn’t change as children get older. Unfortunately we make the mistake. We are the ones that plant the seed in the child’s head. We innocently make statements such as: “Don’t worry, I am here.” “I will leave the landing light on and then you will be OK.” “It is OK the dark won’t hurt you.” “There is nothing to be scared of.” By doing this we are flagging up the possibility for concern. This alarms the child and before you know it they are saying: “I am scared, you need to leave the light on!” “Don’t go, I need you here.”

What is the best approach? Many children reach the stage of wanting to ‘change up’ the bedtime routine by demanding more stories or the light on, the door open, a drink, a snack believe me I have heard them all! It is best to talk through the bedtime routine with your child once they are aged 18 months or older. •

•

Talk while they are in the bath: “Now, after bath time we are going to stay upstairs. We are going into your bedroom to have 2 stories. After story time we are going to have a big hug and then I will say ‘See you at breakfast time’. The light will be turned off and I will close the door as I leave.” To children aged 3 and older I let them know: “The only time children grow is when they are asleep.” “If there is light in your bedroom your brain tells your body it is daytime and then it is difficult to fall to sleep.” “The moment the room is dark your body relaxes, falls to sleep and starts to grow!”

It is so important to remain consistent. The moment you start letting your child dictate the bedtime routine things can start to go terribly wrong. When they claim they are ‘scared of the dark’, I suggest you: • Sit in the room during the early evening with your child. They lay on their bed, you sit on the floor and have a chat in the pitch dark • Talk about day trips gone by or family holiday memories. This gives them something to think about when bedtime comes around • Explain to them on how our body can relax far easier in the dark • State the fact that the bedroom is the same whether in darkness or light. Nothing changes when the light turns off • State “Oh I love the darkness, my body instantly starts to relax.”

Read more For further information and advice on guiding your child to sleep at night - and other parenting problems, please read the book The Three Day Nanny by Kathryn Mewes (published by Vermilion rrp £12.99), or go to her website to find out about her bespoke service www.bespokenanny.com.

What to say to their comments as you leave the bedroom They say: “I need the light on.” Reply promptly: “Nothing to see at bedtime. Remember, your body grows when you sleep.” They say: “Stay with me.” Reply: “Lay and relax and think of the day we went to the zoo. Name all the animals in your head. I love you very much, see you at breakfast time.” They say: “I am scared.” Reply: “You are in your beautiful room, your cosy bed. That is a silly word to use at bedtime. Lay and relax and think of everyone in your class. Try and say all of their names and then all the teachers’ names in the school. See you at breakfast time.” The key is to keep calm and not to over complicate the situation. When your child claims they are scared, promptly reassure them. We need to turn our lights off to the world - that is how we rest and grow.

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october 2015 - families south east

What’sNew

S P O N S O R E D

A R T I C L E

Get up and go We all know what it’s like to feel physically and mentally exhausted from a busy day at work or with the kids and coping with everything can be an everyday battle. Did you know that taking Pharmaton Vitality Capsules helps reduce temporary tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily, and can be taken for a period of twelve weeks? Pharmaton Vitality Capsules are packed with the unique Ginseng G115, vitamins and minerals to help relieve temporary periods of fatigue and restore vitality. It is clinically proven to enhance mental and physical performance. Pharmaton Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30 clinical trials.

Be part of the story with Labels4Kids Labels4Kids.com provides story books with Disney Frozen Fever, Disney Princesses and many more. Personalise them with your child’s name and perhaps those of their best friends or cousins and let them be part of an epic story! This great gift idea is now available on the Labels4Kids website. The adventure books are custom made and take up to 2-3 weeks for Christmas delivery order early so yours can be sent out in time, from www.labels4kids.com/fam2.

Introducing Pimp My Stroller

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London sisters Melanie and Hana are celebrating the first birthday of their toy stroller company, and reaching the shortlist for the Little London Best New Brand award 2015. Pimp My Stroller launched in the summer of 2014 in response to the stereotypical pink and blue toys on the high street. They told us: “Pimp My Stroller is different. We like colour, we like pattern, we like cool toys that all kids love and that grown ups won’t mind looking at too. We aim to be gender neutral - you want camo and hot pink? Sorted. You want 1960’s vintage or Japanese rainbows? No problem. Or a mash up? Absolutely. Our matching Pimp Pockets are the perfect place for nursery-run bread sticks or a very important piece of Lego. Hand made in Brighton and Beckenham, each one is unique.” See the full collection at www.pimpmystroller.co.uk.

Go to school on a dinosaur Turn your child’s favourite ride into an extremely cool ‘scootersaurus’ with the new dinosaur Scootaheadz. Choose from bright green or blue and watch little ones scoot away on their very own terrifying T.rex! Dinosaur Scootaheadz are £18 from www.nhmshop.co.uk and good toy retailers.

Colour your world If you ever thought colouring in was just for children, think again! Increasing numbers of adults now are joining in with the trend which sharpens hand-eye co-ordination, is creative and screen-free - and can reconnect you with your inner child. OMY Design & Play is a young French studio that designs playful, graphic and intelligent products for all ages. They’ve now brought colouring to life for grown-ups, with intricate designs to leave you amused and entertained, while zoning out from everyday stress. As a group activity, colouring in can also help you to connect with your children. After a stressful day, time spent playing and colouring in with your children can really lift your spirit. Why not try it? OMY’s giant colouring posters are £9.90 each, while a pack of 24 colouring placemats for children is £13.90, from www.stonegift.com.

Traditional children’s pyjamas We love these chilly-night-busting brushed cotton pyjamas from Bonsoir of London. The company has been creating nightwear since 1926 and offers a range which is timeless, elegant and quintessentially British, with many items handcrafted in their Somerset sewing room. The pjs are available for three to eight year-olds in a range of prints and designs, £29 from www.bonsoiroflondon.com. There are designs for adults too - yippee!

families south east - october 2015

Five is fun! Parents have the most fun with their children when they are five, according to a new study. When 2000 parents were asked how much fun they have - or had - with their children throughout different ages, 39% claimed five year-olds the most fun age for both boys and girls. Around 38% believed this the most fun age because their child had ‘started communicating with them properly’. A further 33% said their child ‘started to display a good sense of humour, and 23% said it was because they ‘can now properly enjoy playing sports and activities’. The study was commissioned by Soreen to launch a new partnership campaign with independent charity Youth Sport Trust. A free activity pack encourages children of all ages to be active for at least 60 minutes each day. Activities will be published continually over the next nine months, coinciding with national celebration days and major sporting events such as the Rugby World Cup. For free packs, competitions and more information, go to www.soreensquidgyfun.com.

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Termses Clansow g in book

Call your local Stagecoach: Dulwich 020 8949 4116 Blackheath 020 7112 8242 Beckenham 020 8541 0833 Sydenham 020 7228 0981 Upper Norwood 020 8672 6066 www.stagecoach.co.uk

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october 2015 - families south east

THE BABY SHOW -– OLYMPIA

VEGFEST UK LONDON -– OLYMPIA

MICROSPORT -real sport for under 5 s CELEBRATING 24 YEARS! A fun & educational introduction to ball sports: soccer, tennis, hockey, cricket, rugby & more.

What’sOn Our October highlights. For hundreds more listings, click ‘What’s On’ at www.familiesse.co.uk, where you can filter by age, place, find free events and ideas for days out

Trained adult coaches & lots of classes.

Diary Dates for Grownups

AGES 2,3 & 4 (& up to 7yrs in our Beckenham After School Sportsclub) For classes in Bromley, Beckenham & BigginHill: angela@micro-sport.co.uk 01689 600992 For classes in Sevenoaks, Pembury, Orpington, Dunton Green, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells: jnoble@micro-sport.co.uk 07863 330200

www.micro-sport.co.uk

LOCHABER CHILDREN’S TABLE SALE

COMEDY ABOARD THE CUTTY SARK

10 October, LOCHABER HALL, Manor Lee Terrace, Lee SE13 5QL, www.facebook.com/lochabertablesale Good quality second-hand clothes, toys, books, etc for children, and also everything for babies and toddlers, from pushchairs to highchairs. 3-5pm, £1 entry.

CUTTY SARK Studio Theatre, King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT, 020 8858 2698, www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark PHILL JUPITUS, 18 October. A night of stand-up comedy and poetry with the star of BBC2’s Never Mind the Buzzcocks, West End productions Hairspray and The Producers, and Radio 4’s award-winning News Quiz. Tickets £20. IN PERSONS: ALISTAIR McGOWAN, 23 October. Expect around 60 voices from the worlds of sport, comedy, politics, TV and Radio in this 80-minute show with Britain’s best loved impressionist - there’s someone for everyone! Warning: may contain puns. Tickets £20.

FIRST AID FOR LIFE 10 + 14 October in Balham and Westminster, www.firstaidforlife.org.uk A three-hour course covering care of the unconscious baby and child as well as most commonly occurring injuries and illnesses such as choking, bleeding, breaks, bleeds, burns, head injury and febrile convulsions. 9.30am-12.30pm, £60.

VEGFEST UK LONDON 10+11 October, OLYMPIA WEST, Hammersmith Road, Kensington W14 8UX, www.london.vegfest.co.uk A weekend celebrating vegan living, with over 200 stalls showcasing food, bodycare, cosmetics and fashion, celebrity guests, high-profile speakers and cookery demos, plus comedy, live music, street theatre and activities for children. Open 11am-7pm Saturday, 10am-5pm Sunday. Admission on the door free for under 16s, adults £12, reduced prices for pre-booked tickets.

THE BABY SHOW 23-25 October, OLYMPIA, Hammersmith Road, Kensington W14 8UX, 0871 231 0844, www.thebabyshow.co.uk The pregnancy and parenting event showcases the very best baby and infant essentials from leading and not-on-the-high street brands, many who will be launching brand new products and offering amazing discounts exclusively for visitors. As well as fantastic shopping opportunities, an array of inspirational speakers will take to the stage to share their knowledge and advice, including Annabel Karmel MBE, Clare Byam Cook, Mandy Gurney and Tracey Taylor from the British Red Cross. 10am-5.30pm daily, £20 on the door, tickets from £14.35 when advance booked.

The Great Outdoors Firework Displays Put a sparkle into an early November evening at a family-friendly firework display. We’ve found the best in London and further afield. You can too - on our website www.familiesse.co.uk or see page 19 LEEDS CASTLE LEEDS CASTLE, near Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL, 01622 767866, www.leeds-castle.com Leeds Castle has been a Norman stronghold; the private property of six of England’s medieval queens; a palace used by Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon; a Jacobean country house; a Georgian mansion; an elegant early 20th century retreat for the influential and famous; and in the 21st century, it has become one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain. Grounds open 10am daily, admission to castle and grounds free for under 4s, children £13.50, adults £21, valid for a whole year. FALCONRY DISPLAYS, weekends to 1 November. Free flying demonstrations take place in the Falconry Arena in front of the Maze at 1.30pm. The demonstration lasts about 30 to 40 minutes and features a range of birds including Hawks, Vulture, Falcon and Owls. FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR, 7+8 November. There will be lights, camera, action for the biggest and best firework display in the southeast of England. For two nights, the most incredible display of pyrotechnics will light up the sky, synchronised with moving images and glorious music from the movies. Arrive early for afternoon entertainment, enjoy hot food and drinks at a variety of stalls before Hollywood lights the sky at 5.30pm. Adults £19; Children £12.50, under 4s free, book first. LEEDS CASTLE FIREWORKS

families south east - october 2015

familiesse.co.uk

APPL

E & ORCHARD WEEKEND – IGHTHAM MOTE

SHREK’S ADVENTURE

BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM

WALKING STORIES

MUD LARKING BY THE THAMES

SHREK’S ADVENTURE

17-21 October, from the Pavilion Tea House in GREENWICH PARK SE10 8QY, and 22-24 October from the Lido at BROCKWELL PARK, Herne Hill SE24 0PA, www.danceumbrella.co.uk You don’t come to watch Walking Stories: you live it, breathe it, build and dismantle it. Supplied with an MP3 player and headphones, this audio walk is a completely immersive experience that removes you from the clutter of everyday life. Moving between watching, listening and following instructions, this piece takes you on a journey with yourself and your companions. Almost before realising it, you will be absorbed into a spontaneous walking dance. Created by Charlotte Spencer with music by Tristan Shorr and Tom Spencer, Walking Stories has been enjoyed by hundreds of people. It’s a novel take on contemporary choreography both inventive and fun. 1 and 4pm weekdays, 11am, 1 and 4pm weekends.

11 October, MILLENNIUM BRIDGE, Bankside SE1 9TG Dig around for ancient treasures on this muddy outing to the banks of the river Thames. An archaeologist will tell stories of the area’s previous inhabitants and help identify any mysterious goods that get pulled out from the depths. Once they’re all trawled out children will be given hot chocolate and mud pies to warm up with. 11am, free but book first, by email: natasha.ascott@muddypuddles.com

Until December, Riverside Building, COUNTY HALL, South Bank SE1 9PB, www.shreksadventure.com

IGHTHAM MOTE IGHTHAM MOTE, Mote Road, Ivy Hatch, near Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 0NT, 01732 810378, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ighthammote Ightham Mote is a moated medieval manor house dating from 1320. The main features of the house span many centuries from a great hall through to the last owner’s library dressed from 1950s; there is an extensive and beautiful garden, children’s natural play area, and sign-posted walks on the surrounding estate. Open 11am-5pm until 31 October. Entry from £5.40 children, £10.80 adults, £27 families. APPLE & ORCHARD WEEKEND, 26+27 October. Explore the orchard, planted with a variety of heritage apple trees, and sample their produce. There will also be a wide range of apple related crafts and gifts for sale from local suppliers, as well as a National Trust stall. And families can take advantage of a special Apple Trail around the garden. 11am-4pm. 50 THINGS, 31 October. Go wild with art, using natural resources, create works of art and get a little spooked by a craft activity workshop. 12noon-3pm. THE PUMPKIN TRAIL, 1 November. Take a trail around the grounds, and admire the pumpkin patch. 10am-3pm.

UP AT THE 02 The 02, Peninsula Square, Greenwich SE10 0DX, 020 8463 2000, www.theo2.co.uk Climb over the 02’s iconic roof and complete a rewarding personal challenge. An explorer in your climb suit, boots and harness; clip onto the walkway, go on up and admire the view. Your climb guide will be with you every step of the way to tell you about the sights. Tickets from £26, book first.

HEVER CASTLE HEVER CASTLE, Hever, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG, 01732 865224, www.hevercastle.co.uk Experience 700 years of history at the romantic double-moated castle which was once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. The splendid rooms contain fine furniture, tapestries, antiques, an important collection of Tudor paintings and two prayer books inscribed and signed by Anne Boleyn herself. Children can let off steam in the adventure playground, while visitors of all ages enjoy the challenge of finding their way through the Water Maze and the 100 year old Yew Maze. There’s a fascinating collection of Miniature Model Houses, a boating Lake and a warm welcome awaits you in the shops and restaurants. Gardens open 10.30am, castle opens 12noon. Family tickets from £37.

Events and Attractions DULWICH LITERARY FESTIVAL

THE HORNIMAN MUSEUM

16-18 October, The Old Library, DULWICH COLLEGE, Dulwich Common SE21 7LD, www.dulwichliteraryfestival.co.uk

HORNIMAN MUSEUM and gardens, 100 London Road, Forest Hill SE23, 020 8699 1872, www.horniman.ac.uk Museum open 10.30am-5.30pm daily, general admission free, charges apply for special exhibitions and the aquarium. The museum’s music gallery and hands-on base, regular weekend and holiday drop-ins and workshops allow family visitors to explore the collection through arts and crafts, music, stories and hands-on sessions. All this within 16 acres of beautiful green space which has the oldest nature trail in London and an animal corner. PLANTASTIC, Until 1 November. It’s your last chance to explore the wonderful world of plants on a massive scale. From giant seeds and exploding cucumbers to sun-seeking flowers and a huge crawl-through root system, Plantastic’s interactive exhibits and games bring visitors up close to all kinds of fantastic plant life revealing how plants are essential for life on Earth. Special discovery and craft events run alongside the exhibition during school holidays. £3.85 per child, £7.15 adult, £18.15 family. PLANTASTIC GARDENS, until 1 November. Three themed gardens Anatomy of a Flower, Sunseekers and Planting for Pollinators have ‘popped up’ in the Horniman Museum Gardens.

A fantastic weekend of events sponsored by Dulwich Books, with creative workshops, readings, children’s activities and a host of incredible authors including Kate Mosse and Melvyn Bragg. On Saturday 17 October there will be a whole day of activities for children, with comic creative workshops and a dusk storytelling of an incredible fantasy book. Comic creators Gary Northfield (Gary’s Garden) and Jamie Littler (Cogg and Sprokit) will be running creative workshops around The Phoenix, the magazine the Guardian call “the best kids’ comic,” teaching children how to draw their favourite cartoons. Early evening features a special storytelling session with renowned storyteller Vanessa Woolf to celebrate the publication of The Secrets of the Wild Wood and The Letter for the King by Tonke Dragt which was a Times Book of the Year. See the website for the full line-up and bookings.

Streatham & Clapham OTSchool TJunior S ON TUESDAY

Step into the action and star in a hilarious and unforgettable 4D Shrek adventure. Your journey will take you to locations including Shrek’s Swampy home complete with Ogre-sized toilet, The Poison Apple Pub and The Muffin Man’s House. Along the way you’ll meet some of its most famous residents brought to life through a mix of actors and animation Princess Fiona, Gingy the Gingerbread Man, Pinocchio and Puss in Boots. The adventure finishes with a colourful line-up of other DreamWorks characters in themed sets from the worlds of Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda and How to Train Your Dragon. Open 10am-6pm daily, advance tickets from £18.72 children, £23.40 adults.

LONDON SEALIFE AQUARIUM SEA LIFE London Aquarium, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road SE1 7PB, 0871 663 1678, www.visitsealife.com/london See thousands of sea creatures in over two million litres of water, living in over 65 displays over three floors. Brave the Shark Reef Encounter, join in with public feeding sessions and watch the diving displays. There are real penguins too! Open from 10am daily, admission from £19.98 adults, £14.41 children. TURTLE FEST, 3-23 October. See rare Green Sea turtles swimming majestically in the Ocean Reef display and learn fascinating facts on a free turtle discovery trail around the attraction. The first 50 children dressed as a turtle every Saturday during Turtle Fest will get in for free for a turtle-tastic fun filled day!

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM, 39 Wellington Street, Covent Garden WC2E 7BB, 020 7379 6433, www.ltmuseum.co.uk Let your children’s imaginations run wild as they are transported back in time at the historical and interactive London Transport Museum. Filled with buses, trains, and taxis they can take the wheel, try their hand as a tube conductor or bump around with the other passengers in the back, as they explore the vehicles of London’s past and present. Museum open 10am-6pm Mondays to Thursdays and weekends, from 11am Fridays. Admission free for under 17s, £16 adults. Tickets are valid for 12 months’ unlimited admission. ALL ABOARD. In the museum’s exciting new playzone, children can get into the driver’s seat of a real bus, repair a mini Tube train and play in the ‘Lost Property’ office. They can also enjoy ‘sailing’ the Thames Nipper, serve passengers in the Nipper Cafe, fly the Emirates Air Line cable car, make driver announcements and help customers at the mini information desk using a magnetic message board, maps and clocks. Ages 0-7 years. THE FAMILY STATION. Visit the Family Station, pick up a coin bag and choose some activities to do as you explore the museum. Whether you fold your own bus and drive it between the vehicles, design your own poster-postcards or take photos through flickr frames, there is something here for families with children of all ages. Open weekends and school holidays, suitable for families with 3-12 year-olds.

at Streatham & Clapham Prep School

s a great place to meet other parents and carers U a fun time for babies and toddlers (up to 4 years) U an opportunity to socialise and share ideas and support U a stimulating and safe environment U stay and play while enjoying a coffee (or tea!)

Tots on Tuesday takes place at 10 am until 12 noon every Tuesday morning during term time. Prep School 7AVERTREE 2D SW2 3SR 020 8674 6912 www.schs.gdst.net

familiesse.co.uk

october 2014 - families south east

VIEW FROM THE SHARD

SCIENCE MUSEUM

ARTILLERY MUSEUM

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM

MoreWhat’sOn

IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM, Lambeth Road, London SE1, 020 7416 5000, www.iwm.org.uk IWM London has been transformed with ground-breaking First World War Galleries alongside a central atrium space with large object displays, shops and cafes. Family-friendly creative and object discovery sessions take place on Sundays. Admission free. FIRST WORLD WAR GALLERIES. Discover the story of the war - how it started, why it continued and its global impact, through the lives of those who experienced it at the time on both the front line and the home front across Britain and its empire. HORRIBLE HISTORIES - SPIES. Uncover the deadly world of spies in interactive exhibition aimed at families. Horrible Histories: Spiesbrings to life the horrible history of Second World War spies and their secret schemes, based on Terry Deary’s book. Adults £6.20, children £3.30. A FAMILY IN WARTIME. Explores the lives of William and Alice Allpress and their ten children and what life in London was like during the war. A Family in Wartime is brought to life through interactive exhibits, photographs, recorded interviews with the family, archive film footage, paintings, personal documents and an intricate model of the Allpress family home.

Find even more activities: www.familiesse.co.uk then click What's On

GAMBADO PLAYCENTRE

SCIENCE MUSEUM

NATWEST SPORTS GROUND, Copers Cope Road, Beckenham, Kent BR3 1NZ, 020 8662 6910, www.gambado.com/clubs/beckenham Gambado Beckenham boasts one of the largest indoor play frames in greater London, plus special dodgems and a carousel. Children can play, learn, explore and party in a healthy, fun and safe environment while parents can kick back in the cafe bar. Open 9.30am-6.30pm daily, admission from £6.60 children, £2.95 adults plus a registration fee of £5.50 on your first visit. For Halloween specials - see page 5.

SCIENCE MUSEUM, Exhibition Road SW7 2DD, 0870 870 4868, www.sciencemuseum.org.uk Aiming to be the best place in the world for people to enjoy science, the Science Museum makes sense of the science that shapes our lives, sparking curiosity, releasing creativity and changing the future by engaging people of all generations and backgrounds in science, engineering, medicine, technology, design and enterprise. Open daily 10am-6pm except 24-26 December. LAUNCHPAD SCIENCE SHOWS. The largest free interactive science gallery in the UK is packed with exhibits which allow visitors to launch a rocket, turn their head into a sound box and control a magnetic cloud. Ages 8-14, free. COSMONAUTS, BIRTH OF THE SPACE AGE, until 13 March 2016. In 1957 Russia launched the world’s first artificial satellite, Sputnik, into space and just four years later sent the first ever human - Yuri Gagarin. Discover the dramatic story of how Russia turned the dream of space travel into a reality and became the first nation to explore space in this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition. Tickets £14, concessions available. CRAVINGS: CAN YOUR FOOD CONTROL YOU? Until 10 January 2016. Cravings explores the power food has over our bodies, brains and behaviour, revealing how the brain, gut brain and gut bacteria work together to control our desire for food. Discover how not one but two brains affect our cravings and take part in real experiments to uncover how our senses trick our brains into wanting more. Free.

BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM BANK OF ENGLAND MUSEUM, Threadneedle Street, London EC2R, 020 7601 5545, www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum The Bank of England Museum tells the story of the Bank of England from its foundation in 1694 to its role today as the UK’s central bank. Examine intricately-designed banknotes, feel the weight of a genuine gold bar and see the pikes and muskets that were once used to defend the Bank. Children’s activity sheets provide fun for younger visitors. Open 10am5pm Mondays to Fridays, admission free. THE BIG DRAW: JOIN THE FLEET! 26-30 October. Come aboard the life-size boat moored in the Museum and take the helm of the interactive boat game to discover what the Bank does to keep the economy on a steady course. You can then design your own boat and enter the competition with prizes to be won. The winning designs will be displayed on the Bank’s website. 10am - 4pm, free.

VIEW FROM THE SHARD - KIDS GO FREE 26 October - 1 November, THE SHARD, Joiner Street, London Bridge SE1 9RN, 0844 499 7111, www.theviewfromtheshard.com The View from The Shard provides families with an unforgettable experience, and is the perfect place to nurture a fascination with the history of London. From the spectacular 64km (40 mile), 360-degree view, families can spot both modern and historic landmarks, including The Houses of Parliament, The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the Olympic Park and Wembley Stadium. During the October half-term school holidays, each paying adult is entitled to two child tickets free of charge. Advance adult tickets £24.95; pre-booking advisable.

THE FOUNDLING MUSEUM 40 Brunswick Square, Camden Town WC1N 1AZ, 020 7841 3600, www.foundlingmuseum.org.uk Britain’s first home for abandoned children and London’s first public art gallery, The Foundling Museum reveals the stories of the Foundling Hospital’s founder Thomas Coram, the artist William Hogarth and composer George Frideric Handel. It houses significant collections of eighteenth-century art, interiors, social history and music. Open 10am5pm Tuesdays to Saturdays and from 11am Sundays. Admission free for under 16s, £8.25 adults. INTRODUCTORY GALLERY. Showcasing a decade’s research into the Hospital’s archive, the introductory gallery takes visitors on an emotional journey through the history of London’s first home for children who would otherwise have been abandoned. New displays of favourite objects offer visitors greater access and depth of information, while previously unseen items shed new light on the Foundling Hospital story.

CHURCHILL WAR ROOMS CHURCHILL WAR ROOMS, Clive Steps, King Charles Street SW1A, www.iwm.org.uk The Churchill War Rooms were originally the Cabinet War Rooms, created in 1938 as underground storage areas for the Office of Works Building in Whitehall. They were soon converted to house the central core of government and to become a temporary military information centre serving the Prime Minister and the Chiefs of Staff of the air, naval and land forces. Visitors can hear the first-hand personal accounts of those who worked in the Cabinet War Rooms during the war. Learn what life and conditions were like underground and experiencing the authenticity and emotional resonance of walking through the corridors where Churchill made history. Open 9.30am-6pm, admission free for under 16s, £15.95 adults.

families south east - october 2015

FULHAM PALACE

CHILDREN AT THE V&A V&A MUSEUM, Cromwell Road SW7 2RL, 020 7942 2000, www.vam.ac.uk/families Pick up a family trail from the Information Desk and explore the museum through puzzles, drawing and observation. Suitable for 7-12 year-olds. There are also hundreds of exciting hands-on exhibits containing plenty to touch and try out. Museum open 10am-5.45pm daily, admission free. BACK-PACKS, Saturdays. Pick up a back pack and explore the museum with fantastic jigsaws, stories, puzzles and games. 10.30am-5pm.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

V&A MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, Cromwell Road SW7 5BD, 020 7942 5000, www.nhm.ac.uk Dinosaurs, volcanoes, precious gems and creepy crawlies - discover the diversity of the natural world through the nation’s finest collection of natural history specimens. Fascinating exhibitions display up to 70 million plants, animals, fossils, rocks and minerals, with a hands-on education centre where you can meet real scientists at work. Museum open 10am-5.50pm, admission free. DINO SNORES, 23 October, 7 November and 5 December. Discover what really happens at the museum when the staff and visitors have gone home. Children aged 7-11 years, from 7pm to 9.50am the following day. Tickets £60.

Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green E2 9PA, 020 8983 5200, www.museumofchildhood.org.uk This gem of a museum houses dolls, dolls’ houses, puppets, teddy bears, games, childcare, clothing, furniture and art and photography. Everyday drop-in activities include storytelling, arts and crafts, and trails. There’s dressing-up, role play and an under 3’s area, an indoor sandpit, and regular special events. Open 10am-5.45pm daily, admission free. BIG DRAW WEEK, 26-30 October. Let your imagination run wild with a range of drawing inspired activities all week, with the help of illustrators and artists.

HMS BELFAST

MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS, West India Quay E14, 020 7001 9844, www.museumoflondon.org.uk/docklands, and MUSEUM OF LONDON, London Wall EC2Y 5HN, 020 7001 9844, www.museumoflondon.org.uk Open daily 10am-6pm, admission free. Regular programmes of weekend and holiday events and workshops help visitors find out more about London’s history, covering events such as the Great Plague, Londoners’ jobs and occupations, and Roman life. On Sundays, museum hosts help visitors explore the galleries through fun, hands-on activities at 11am and 2pm.

MUSEUM OF LONDON On the THAMES at The Queen’s Walk by Morgans Lane, Tooley Street SE1 2JH, www.iwm.org.uk Discover the exciting stories of those who served HMS Belfast; exploring the nine decks where sailors once hurried up and down its ladders, or take a look at the mess desk where her 950-strong crew ate and slept. Open 10am-5pm, admission £16 adults, children £8, family tickets from £28. DAZZLE CAMOUFLAGE, 24 October - 1 November. How do you hide a ship at sea? Learn how dazzle camouflage was used to keep HMS Belfast from being discovered by other ships and take part in an animation workshop to create your very own camouflage. All camouflage designs will be turned into a short film available to view online later in the year. 11am-12.30pm and 2-4pm. GUN TURRET EXPERIENCE. Immerse yourself in the Gun Turret Experience, a chance to see what fighting at sea would have really been like. Overlooking the front of the ship, or Fo’c’sle, is the forward most of HMS Belfast’s Triple Gun Turrets. Lights, audio, videos and projections will recreate the experience, highlighting the hectic and cramped conditions that would have seen twenty-six men in this confined space at any one time. Entry included in general admission price.

COMEDY ACADEMY 4 KIDS 25 October, ROYAL ALBERT HALL, Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP, 0845 401 5145, www.royalalberthall.com Calling all budding comedians! If you’re aged 7 - 13 and fancy a chance to hone your stand-up skills, then the comedy academy is for you. This two hour workshop gives the next generation of comics a chance to try out ideas and come up with sketches, before giving a short performance at the end of the session. 11:00am, 12.30pm.

ARTILLERY MUSEUM ROYAL ARSENAL, Woolwich SE18 6ST, 020 8855 7755, www.firepower.org.uk Firepower, the Royal Artillery Museum in Woolwich tells the powerful and dramatic story of artillery, scientific discoveries made through warfare and human stories of courage and endeavour. The ‘ground shaking’ Field of Fire audio-visual show puts you in the midst of battle as shells whizz overhead and guns roar. Open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to Saturdays. Admission £2.50 children, £5.30 adults, £12.50 families. CALL THE MEDIC, 27-30 October. Become a Military Medic this Halloween half term. In the Battlefield Triage Centre face painters will decorate visitors with cuts, scars, arrow wounds etc. Learn how to tie bandages and use stretchers. Then put those skills to the test in the Medic Drilling where you race in teams to get your patient across an assault course. This holidays tour has tales of great heroes who did amazing things even when injured. Halloween based crafts top off the activity week. 11am-4pm, activity package £4.50 plus admission. FAMILY FRIENDLY GHOST TOURS, 30+31 October - see page 5.

familiesse.co.uk

The Big Draw Join the fleet!

Free admission

26–30 October 10:00am–4:30pm

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE

ROYAL MUSEUMS GREENWICH National Maritime Museum, Queen’s House, Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark, Greenwich SE10, 020 8858 4422, www.rmg.co.uk Royal Museums Greenwich holds the world’s largest maritime collection. It is housed in historic buildings forming part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site and incorporates the Royal Observatory Greenwich, the 17th-century Queen’s House, and Cutty Sark. The Museums works to illustrate for everyone the importance of the sea, ships, time and the stars and their relationship with people, and is also a major centre of education and research. On Saturdays and Sundays free performances and workshops entertain family visitors, while on Tuesdays preschoolers can make music and play with parents and carers. Open 10am-5pm daily. General admission is free; some buildings, special exhibitions and events have an admission fee. HERE BE DRAGONS, 26-30 October. The sea is a strange and scary place. Learn about the world’s oceans and create incredible monsters from myth and legend in this special workshop. 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm. FRIGHTENING FACES, 26, 28 and 30 October. Use the museum’s weird and wonderful watery objects to inspire you to create amazing masks to petrify your friends! 11.30am-1pm and 1.30-4pm. GHOST SHIP, 31 October. Come in your best fancy dress and join a day of family fun and frights. Win prizes, take part in spooky activities and listen to scary maritime stories. 11am-4pm. THE GREAT MAP. Borrow a tablet and ‘set sail’ to explore distant lands, discovering stories of female pirates, Scott’s Antarctic expedition and more. AHOY! Visit the museum’s new gallery where younger visitors can board a pirate ship, stoke the fire of a steamship, navigate an ice-breaker, and more, all under one roof. Under 7s, free.

CUTTY SARK CUTTY SARK, King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9HT, 020 8858 2698, www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark The world famous 19th century tea clipper offers visitors four levels to explore. Take in the views from the main deck and steer at the ship’s wheel, meet the crew who worked on board, explore the various cargoes from wool to whiskey, and see how tea was loaded on board through interactive displays, props, information boards and animations. Family friendly events run at weekends and during school holidays. Open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to Sundays, admission £7 children, £13.50 adults, from £24 families. Bundled tickets are available with the other Royal Museum Greenwich attractions. EVERY CARGO TELLS A STORY, 26+27 October. Be inspired by different cargo carried aboard Cutty Sark to help create a collaborative artwork, as part of The Big Draw. 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm. DAMRU DRUMS, 28+29 October. Make and decorate a traditional drum inspired by the ship’s voyages to India and the cargoes she collected there. 11.30am1.30pm and 2-4pm. GHOST SHIPS AND SPOOKY SHADOWS, 30 October. Create a spooky shadow puppet show with ghost-ships, sea monsters and your own Halloween puppet to take home and play with. 11.30am-1.30pm and 2-4pm.

GEFFRYE MUSEUM EVENTS GEFFRYE MUSEUM, Kingsland Road E2 8EA, 020 7739 9893, www.geffrye-museum.org.uk Special workshops and quizzes inspire creativity and provide amusement for accompanied 5-11 year-olds on the first Saturday of each month and during school holidays. Places allocated 30 minutes in advance of each workshop. Museum open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, from noon Sundays.

BRITISH MUSEUM

THE BRITISH MUSEUM BRITISH MUSEUM, Great Russell Street WC1B 3DG, 020 7323 8181, www.britishmuseum.org The British Museum was founded in 1753, the first national public museum in the world. Each year nearly 6 million visitors pour through the doors to see the museum’s collection of ancient and historical artefacts including the ever-popular Egyptian mummies, or to take in the latest block-buster exhibition. Open 10am-5.30pm daily, admission free, charge for some exhibitions. MOSAIC MASKS, 10 October. Use tablets to design your own mosaic mask inspired by the Aztec gods. Print out your finished mask to take home. 11am-4pm. FUN FAMILY PHOTOS, 17 October. Learn green screen technology skills to create a picture of your family interacting with the museum’s collection. 11am-4pm. EXPLORING EGYPTIAN MUMMIES, 18 October. Explore digital skills used by museum scientists to uncover the secrets of the ancient Egyptians, and see if you can make your own discovery. 11am-4pm. EVERY DRAWING TELLS A STORY, 24 October. As part of the Big Draw at the British Museum, develop your drawing skills using a range of exciting software on tablets and phones. In a separate Big Draw event, visitors can explore with swirling lines, bold colours and playful animals to help create a giant Celtic design. 11am-4pm.

Come aboard the life-sized boat moored in the Museum and take the helm of the interactive boat game to discover what the Bank does to keep the economy on a steady course. You can then design your own boat and enter the competition with prizes to be won. The winning designs will be displayed on the Bank’s website. 10:00am–5:00pm Share your experience Monday to Friday. @boemuseum Closed weekends and Bank Holidays. Entrance T: 020 7601 5545 in Bartholomew Lane, London EC2R 8AH www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum

FULHAM PALACE FULHAM PALACE, Bishop’s Avenue, Fulham SW6 6EA, 020 7736 3233, www.fulhampalace.org The Museum of Fulham Palace charts the long history of the palace site, from Prehistoric times and Roman settlement, through Medieval, Tudor, Georgian and Victorian bishops to the present day. The museum collection includes paintings, archaeology and artefacts. Open noon-4pm Sundays, 12.30-3.30pm Mondays to Thursdays, admission free. APPLE DAY CELEBRATION, 11 October. A day of family fun in the Walled Garden, with apple displays and tastings, food and drink stalls, demonstrations, children’s activities, baking competition and much more. 11am-3pm, free. FUN DAY, 28 October. A day of family fun including crafts, storytelling and dressing up, in partnership with Hammersmith and Fulham Adult Learning and Skills Service. Free, no booking necessary. Children must be accompanied by an adult. ARCHAEOLOGY WORKSHOP, 30 October. Ever wondered who was here before us? Discover archaeological finds dating back to the Neolithic period, find out all about our prehistoric ancestors, and how they lived on the site of Fulham Palace. 10am-4pm, free.

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7th & 8th November 2015 This year there will be lights, camera and action for the Leeds Castle Firework Spectacular. Timed to music from the movies and with projections on the Castle themed to the silver screen, Hollywood is coming to Kent. Arrive from 2pm to enjoy the food and entertainment before the display starts at 5.30pm.

Adult: £19.00; Child (under 16 years): £12.50; Under 4s free (must be reserved at time of booking) Firework tickets must be pre-booked. Leeds Castle is closed to non-ticket holders. Group rates available. Visit leeds-castle.com/events !"#$%%"&'(") *"+,-"#(" ."01622 880008 (Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm)

october 2014 - families south east

MR TIGER GOES WILD AT CANADA WATER

COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS

HETTY FEATHER

UNICORN THEATRE

MoreWhat’sOn

UNICORN THEATRE, 147 Tooley Street SE1 2HZ, 020 7645 0560, www.unicorntheatre.com UP CLUB, Saturdays. Join the Unicorn play club every Saturday. Take part in free activities from rocket building to portrait painting, giant Jenga tournaments, cake decorating and lots more. 12noon-1.30pm. RAW, 16+17 October. Raw is a dance piece about playing, dreaming and pretending. It’s about being a child, which can be difficult. It’s about growing up in a world that’s too huge and chaotic to fully comprehend. And it’s about the grown-ups who look after us who are distant and seem unfathomable. Ages 10+, tickets from £12. A MANO (BY HAND), 29 October - 1 November. This is the story of a very small but very special hero with a great desire to escape from his pottery shop window and those who live there with him. Told with beautifully crafted clay characters and remarkable artistry, A Mano is a touching and life-affirming story about love, small failures, a potter’s wheel and four hands at play. Ages 4+, tickets £10 children, £16 adults.

Find even more activities: www.familiesse.co.uk then click What's On

Theatre, Shows and Music FAMILY SUNDAYS AT THE ROH

HETTY FEATHER

25 October and 29 November, ROYAL OPERA HOUSE, Bow Street, London WC2E 9D, 07304 4000, www.roh.org.uk Explore the Royal Opera House, its artists and the world of opera and ballet. Sundays are packed full of creative and practical activities for all the family including informal performances from Royal Ballet dancers, plus interactive singing and dance activities. Ages 6+, 12-4pm, £5 adults, £3 children.

13-17 October, CHURCHILL THEATRE BROMLEY, High Street, Bromley, Kent BR1 1HA, 0844 871 7620, www.atgtickets.com From best-selling author Jacqueline Wilson, the tale of plucky Hetty Feather is brought thrillingly to life on stage with an original musical score, circus skills and a huge heart. Ages 7+.

SOUTHBANK

RATATOUILLE LIVE IN CONCERT ALBANY EVENTS ALBANY THEATRE, Douglas Way, Deptford SE8 4AG, 020 8692 4446, www.thealbany.org.uk SNOW CHILD, 11 October. A magical story about family, love and the power of dreams, inspired by Arthur Ransome’s adaptation of The Little Daughter of the Snow. As she dances in the wild landscape and talks with the animals, the Snow Child brings joy, fun and laughter to a frost-filled landscape. Ages 3+, family ticket £24. CIRCUS MAYHEM, 7+8 November. Marvel at cycling pianist Rimski, puppeteer and quick-fire painter Jon Hicks and sweet slapstick trio BettiCombo from Italy. 2pm and 7pm, family tickets £24. 16 SINGERS, 15+16 October. Katherine Morley’s special experience cleverly captures the attention of tiny spectators using breath, rhythms and song, and by blending movement with an intricate, moving set. Ages 0-18 months, £12 for a baby and carer ticket. THE MIGHTY PRINCE AND OTHER FABULOUS FABLES, 18 October. Five stories featuring a host of bugs, birds, animals and magical creatures plus rhyme, movement, live music, song and puppetry. An enchanting family show based on stories told by the Buddha with simple morals for young hearts and minds. Ages 3+, family ticket £24. BEDTIME STORIES, 29 + 30 October. Celebrate the magical time of the day when the stresses and strains of life melt away and enter a world of imagination and dreams with Bedtime Stories. Tucked up with your family and friends in a bedroom installation, unwind and be dazzled with circus, theatre, dance and projections. Ages 5+, tickets £9. DISCO KIDS: MONSTER MUNCH, 1 November, see page 5. AL CUBO, 7+8 November. Award-winning French-Italian trio BettiCombo use slapstick, charm and bags of skill to fashion a playground from countless white buckets and a towering Chinese pole. With these simple props, and with wit and endless enthusiasm, this nternationally acclaimed company play an endless and highly entertaining game of nothingness. Ages 7+, family ticket £34.

CANADA WATER CULTURE SPACE CULTURE SPACE, Canada Water Library, 21 Surrey Quays Road SE16 7AR, 020 7525 2931, www.canadawaterculturespace.org.uk JOJO AND BILLIE’S TOUR DE FRANCE, 10 October. What happens when JoJo and Billie’s bicycles crash with a bang, and Billie can no longer explore France? With live bicycle percussion, live music, bicycle choreography and video work, the developing friendship of JoJo and Billie teaches us that by overcoming our differences and sharing our cultures, we can have a wonderful journey together. Ages 4+, 1pm and 3pm, family tickets £24. MR TIGER GOES WILD, 17 October. Mr Tiger lived a perfectly proper life in a perfectly proper city and everything was perfectly fine... until the day he had a wonderfully WILD idea! Join Mr Tiger on a musical adventure full of fun and laughter as he journeys from the city to the jungle that will have you roaring with laughter. Ages 3+, family ticket £24. COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS, 31 October. Cracking entertainment for everyone over six years old and under 400 years old (friendly vampires only). The best comedians from the UK and world circuit will be doing what they do best - but without the rude bits! Dress up in your spooky and ghoulish costumes for extra fun and treats. Ages 6+, family tickets £24.

families south east - october 2015

28 October, ROYAL ALBERT HALL, Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP, 020 7589 8212, www.royalalberthall.com Experience the unforgettable thrill of a live orchestral performance while watching one of the most acclaimed and popular family films of the past decade. Ratatouille Live in Concert receives its UK premiere with Michael Giacchino’s classic score played live on stage by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. Tickets from £19.84, under 4s free with a paying adult.

SOUTHBANK CENTRE, Belvedere Road SE1 8PX, 0844 847 9944, www.southbankcentre.co.uk FAMILY CONCERT, 17 October. Have you ever wondered what happens when an orchestra tries to play without a conductor? In this family concert, Southbank Sinfonia will be doing exactly that as the musicians themselves take control. But how do they keep the music together? Find out as every flick of the head, raising of an eyebrow and split-second of eye contact changes the direction the music takes. Ages 5-11, 11am, £25 family ticket.

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL STORYSTOCK 2015 28-30 October, BUSH THEATRE, 7 Uxbridge Road, London W12 8LJ, 020 8743 5050, www.bushtheatre.co.uk A festival of storytelling for children aged 3-11 and their families, with new Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell (Ottoline and the Orange Cat, Goth Girl) as the headline guest. With live literature shows and talks from Judith Kerr, Philip Reeve, Tamara McFarlane and more, plus workshops including creative coding, creative writing, animation and comic drawing, poetry and letter-writing.

THE MAGIC WORD 29-31 October, THE CHELSEA THEATRE, 7 World’s End Place, Kings Road, London SW10 0DR, www.chelseatheatre.org.uk In a secret, magical forest lives a beautiful Forest Queen. In the summer the forest is warm and the Queen loves dancing in the dappled sunlight. But in the winter she becomes cold and hungry, and it’s time to watch out! After their sell-out shows of The Princess & The Frog, Let’s All Dance return with their second gorgeous, classical ballet. 1.30pm and 3.30pm, tickets £8 children, £10 adults.

GREENWICH THEATRE GREENWICH THEATRE, Crooms Hill, Greenwich SE10 8ES, 020 8858 7755, www.greenwichtheatre.org.uk ROSIE’S MAGIC HORSE, 18 October. Little Rosie collects ice-lolly sticks and puts them in an old box. As Rosie dreams of helping her parents pay off the bills her stick collection dreams of becoming something greater. A heart-warming tale of aspiration, friendship, adventure and a little bit of mischief. Ages 3-7, tickets from £7.50. THE KING OF TINY THINGS, 26 October. Based on the children’s book by award-winning author Jeanne Willis we follow two young sisters - Jeanne and Chrissie, camping in their grandparents’ garden, where they meet the King of Tiny Things - a winged shepherd of all who ‘creep & crawl or buzz their wings’. Ages 3-6, 12noon and 3pm. THE SNOW DRAGON, 27+28 October. Billy has everything a young goat could need - and more besides. On New Year’s Eve, Billy’s parents tell him about the legendary Snow Dragon, who will bring him even more goodies during the night. But when Billy bumps into some wolves in the woods, New Year’s Day seems a long way off. Ages 3-7, tickets from £7.50.

VICTORIA PALACE THEATRE, Victoria Street, London SW1E 5EA, 0844 248 5000, www.billyelliotthemusical.com Set against the background of the 1984/85 miners’ strike, Billy Elliot the Musical is the inspirational story of one boy’s struggle to realise his dream to dance against the odds. Featuring a timeless score by Elton John, sensational dance and a powerful story, Billy Elliot is an uplifting and spectacular theatrical experience that will stay with you forever. Tickets from £29.50, family tickets from £105.

CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY THEATRE ROYAL, Drury Lane, Covent Garden WC2B 5JF, 020 7850 8790, www.reallyuseful.com/theatres/theatre-royal-drury-lane Roald Dahl’s deliciously dark tale of young Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectioner Willy Wonka comes to life in an action packed West End musical directed by Academy Award winner Sam Mendes. Tickets from £16.50.

THE FAIRFIELD FAIRFIELD HALLS, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 1DG, 020 8688 9291, www.fairfield.co.uk THE SILVER SWORD, 9+10 October. Join Ruth, Edek, Bronia and Jan in this gripping tale of hope against all odds. Alone and fending for themselves in a Poland devastated by World War II, Jan and his three homeless friends cling to the silver sword as a symbol of hope. Ages 7-14, tickets from £16. MISTER MAKER AND THE SHAPES - LIVE, 17 October. Join arts and craft hero Mister Maker, for his first ever live theatre tour. Packed full of arty adventures there’ll be a big ‘make’ to take part in, super songs to join in with, and fabulous supporting cast including The Shapes. Ages 2+, children £11.50, adults £15. DINOSAUR ZOO, 25+26 October. From cute baby dinos to teeth-gnashing giants, marvel and interact with extraordinary life-like dinosaurs in this imaginative and hilarious live show. But watch out. Not all of these ravenous reptiles are as tame as they seem... Ages 3-16, tickets from £14. PEPPA PIG’S SURPRISE, 31 October and 1 November. Peppa Pig, George and their friends are back at Fairfield Halls in a brand new live stage show with fun, games and surprises in this charming, new show for all pre-schoolers. Tickets From £13.50.

STORY DAYS AT THE GLOBE

CATS

Sackler Studios, SHAKESPEARE’S GLOBE, 21 New Globe Walk SE1 9DT, 020 7401 9919, www.shakespearesglobe.com/education Dynamic and unforgettable retellings of Shakespeare’s stories by Globe Education story tellers, suitable for the whole family. Ages 6+. 11am and 2pm start. Tickets £15 for one adult and one child.

23 October - 2 January 2016, LONDON PALLADIUM, 8 Argyll Street, London W1F 7TF, 0844 412 4648, www.reallyusefultheatres.co.uk Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking 2015 Olivier award nominated musical Cats returns to the London Palladium, starring the Queen of British Soul Beverley Knight as Grizabella. Tickets from £20.

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DINOSAUR ZOO - FAIRFIELD

MC ESCHER AT DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY

POLKA THEATRE POLKA THEATRE, 240 Broadway, Wimbledon SW19 1SB, 020 8543 4888, www.polkatheatre.com HURRICANE BOY, 7-11 October. A charming show combining physical storytelling with live music. Ages 5-11, tickets £10 children, £13.50 adults. THE BEAR, 23 October - 8 November. One night when Tilly is fast asleep, an enormous snowy white bear climbs into her bedroom. It has a big black tongue and a yawn as big as your head. Join Tilly and her furry friend for a magical adventure as Raymond Briggs’s beloved book comes to life with dazzling puppetry, delicious music and dreamy storytelling. Ages 4-8, tickets £13.50, concessions £10.

DR. SEUSS’S THE LORAX 3 December 2015 - 16 January 2016, THE OLD VIC, The Cut, London SE1 8NB, 0844 871 7628, www.oldvictheatre.com “I am the Lorax. I speak for the trees!” Inspired by Dr. Seuss’s classic tale, The Lorax tells of a moustachioed and cantankerous critter who’s on a mission to protect the earth from the greedy, tree-chopping, Thneed-knitting businessman known only as The Once-ler. Adapted by David Greig and brought to the stage by acclaimed director Max Webster (James And The Giant Peach, To Kill A Mockingbird, Twelfth Night), The Lorax blends theatrical invention, songs and zany humour in a timely and vibrant Christmas show with a message for all the family. Ages 6+, tickets from £12, with 50% off some tickets for ages 14 and under.

THE BIG DRAW

Firework Displays BLACKHEATH FIREWORK SPECTACULAR 7 November, BLACKHEATH SE3, www.lewisham.gov.uk/fireworks One of the biggest free community events in the capital, Blackheath Fireworks now attract up to 100,000 people each year. The event promises a fun evening of entertainment, with a funfair from 4pm, bar, food and other stalls from 5pm and the main display at 8pm.

BECKENHAM FIREWORKS DISPLAY 7 November, CROYDON ROAD RECREATION GROUND, Beckenham BR3 3QL, www.facebook.com/events/157426201262889/ Always a popular event for children and families, Beckenham Round Table's annual event is a colourful pyrotechnics show, complete with a funfair and fairground rides for little ones. Gates open 6pm, fireworks at 8pm.

LORD MAYOR'S SHOW DANSON PARK FIREWORKS 7 November, DANSON PARK, Bexleyheath, Kent DA6 8HL, 0797 934 137, www.dansonparkfireworks.co.uk Welling Round Table organise one of the biggest local firework events, set to a background of music in the grounds of Danson Park. Plus a funfair for children, and food and drink stalls. Gates open 6pm, firework show at 8pm. Advance tickets £6 adults, £4 children, on the door £10 adults, £5 children.

CRYSTAL PALACE FIREWORKS 5 November, CRYSTAL PALACE PARK SE19 2AA, www.crystalpalacefireworks.co.uk Not one but two fireworks displays, plus food and drink stalls. Gates open 6pm, children's fireworks 7pm, main display with music 8.30pm. There will be a bucket collection on the night to raise funds for St Christopher's Hospice. Advance tickets £5 children (age 3-10 years), £7 adults, £17.80 family ticket. On the door £10 adults, £5 children, £25 families, under 3s free.

BATTERSEA PARK FIREWORKS 7 November, Battersea Park SW11, 020 8871 7534, www.wandsworth.gov.uk/fireworks Marvel at an impressive display of fireworks at Battersea Park, one of London's flagship fireworks events. Expect traditional Guy Fawkes fun all evening, with stunning pyrotechnics, bonfire and traditional attractions. Gates open 6pm, 7.30pm bonfire, 8pm fireworks display. Advance tickets only.

14 November, RIVER THAMES, between Waterloo Bridge and Blackfriars Bridge, https://lordmayorsshow.london/fireworks/ The Lord Mayor's Show London celebrates an 800-year tradition in grand, historic style. Take to the streets to enjoy parades, festivities, fireworks and more in this historic London event. The fireworks display starts at 5.15pm from a barge moored between Waterloo and Blackfriars bridges. Watch from the banks or grab a prime position on one of the bridges. Admission free.

LEEDS CASTLE FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR 7+8 November, LEEDS CASTLE, Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL, 01622 880008, www.leeds-castle.co.uk There will be lights, camera, action for the biggest and best firework display in the southeast of England. For two nights, the most incredible display of pyrotechnics will light up the sky, synchronised with moving images and glorious music from the movies. Arrive early for afternoon entertainment, enjoy hot food and drinks at a variety of stalls before Hollywood lights the sky at 5.30pm. Adults £19; Children £12.50, under 4s free, book first.

BONFIRE AND FIREWORK SPECTACULAR 7 November, KENT LIFE HERITAGE PARK FARM, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3AU, 01622 763939, www.kentlife.org.uk Be stunned by fire breathers and witness the countdown to a spectacular firework display set to a themed soundtrack. The award-winning attraction will be open from 3pm, with children's entertainment, the Vintage Village to explore, plus indoor and outdoor play areas, and a tearoom. Fireworks 7.45pm, event closes at 9pm. £9 children, £11 adults.

Art Activities DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY

ART AT SIR JOHN SOANE’S HOUSE

DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY, Gallery Road, Dulwich Village SE21 7AD, 020 8693 5254, www.dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk Museum open 10am-5pm Tuesdays to Fridays, from 11am weekends and bank holidays. Admission free for accompanied children, £6 adults. Listed activities free for families with a gallery ticket or £3 per child. THE AMAZING WORLD OF M.C. ESCHER, 14 October - 17 January. Escher was one of the most popular artists of the 20th century, renowned for his woodcuts, lithographs, drawings and mezzotints. This exhibition showcases nearly 100 works from the collection of the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag in the Netherlands. £14 adults, children free, concessions available. HALLOWEEN HARRY POTTER, 31 October; see page 5. THE IRON GENIE, 30 October - 1 November. Watch Anita Chowdry’s harmonograph create Spirograph-like drawings before your eyes. Explore the instrument’s mechanisms and create your own work to take home. ARTPLAY, first and last Sunday of each month. Creative drop-in workshops for adults and children, with a different activity each session. Make anything and everything from bunting to block printing and all things in between. 2-3.45pm. FREE FAMILY TRAIL. Ask a gallery assistant or stop by at the Gallery Friends desk for a free trail; updated frequently and available for the permanent and temporary exhibitions.

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY, St Martin’s Place WC2H 0HE, 020 7306 0055, www.npg.org.uk The gallery features thousands of portraits of the most famous people in British history, from the 16th century to the present day. Open 10am-6pm daily. DROP IN FAMILY SUNDAYS. On the third Sunday of every month, families are invited to drop-in with children aged 3+ to take part in portrait-related events.

SIR JOHN SOANE’S MUSEUM, 13 Lincoln’s Inn Fields WC2A 3PB, 020 7440 4263, www.soane.org Tucked away in Lincoln’s Inn Fields at the heart of London, this magical, mysterious museum encourages young visitors to explore Soane’s treasures and develop new skills with specialist guidance. Sir John Soane (1753- 1737) was an inveterate collector, filling every nook and cranny of his beautiful home with items that fascinated him. From fossils to classical fragments from Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome and from contemporary paintings to architectural models, drawings and literature, he intended that after his death both his house and its extraordinary contents should be used to educate and inspire. Free drop-in activities run on the third Saturday of every month, with activities for all ages and families can take part together from 1.30-4.40pm.

SUNDAY FAMILY ART CLUB THE CONSERVATOIRE, 19-21 Lee Road, Blackheath SE3 9RQ, 020 8852 0234, www.conservatoire.org.uk Join the Conservatoire on the first Sunday in every month for a family art adventure. Each month there is a different themed activity and absolutely no experience is required as the sessions are led by a professional artist tutor. Pre book or just drop by, but places are limited. Max three children per family group. 10.30am-12noon, £15 per family.

THE WALLACE COLLECTION THE WALLACE COLLECTION, Hertford House, Manchester Square W1U 3BN, 020 7563 9500, www.wallacecollection.org The Wallace Collection displays wonderful works of art collected in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries by the first four Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace, the son of the 4th Marquess, in their main London townhouse. Family multi-media tours and trails bring the exhibits to life for younger visitors. Open 10am-5pm daily, admission free. READY, STEADY, DRAW! 24 October. Join a team of artists led by Jenny Parker in this great Big Draw-Off. Inspired by the collection and the Big Draw theme of Every Drawing Tells a Story?, your team will go head-to head on drawing challenges set by the museum. 11am - 1pm and 2.30pm - 4.30pm.

THE NATIONAL GALLERY TRAFALGAR SQUARE WC2N 5DN, 020 7747 2885, www.nationalgallery.org.uk Open daily 10am-6pm, Fridays to 9pm, admission free. With over 2,300 paintings in the collection, there are hundreds of reasons to visit the gallery, along with free hands-on art workshops for families at weekends and during school holidays. No need to book, but places are limited and allocated on arrival up to one hour before the start.

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SOMERSET HOUSE FAMILY EVENTS SOMERSET HOUSE, Strand WC2, 020 7845 4600, www.somersethouse.org.uk Free family workshops run on Saturdays from 2-3.30pm. Tickets available from 1pm from the information desk. Children aged 6-12 years must be accompanied by an adult.

FAMILIES AT THE TATE TATE BRITAIN, Millbank SW1, 020 7887 8888, www.tate.org.uk/britain Open daily 10am-5.50pm, and until 10pm the first Friday of the month. Family trails are available daily from the Information Desks and are free for 5yrs and under. Go on a journey around Tate Britain and post your discoveries into your ‘Post it’ box as you go. When you get home, open up the box and show your friends what you found. Or you could follow the ‘Join up’ trail: play the listening game, search for shapes, patterns and talking hands, and make your own sculptures. Every weekend the free Art Trolley encourages children to imagine and create, make colourful collages, style a wonderful sculpture or perhaps make a sketchbook and fill it with great ideas.

october 2015 - families south east

Adapted by

DAVID GREIG 3 DE C

2015 Families South East Tel: 020 8699 7240 Email: info@familiesse.co.uk Contact: Robina Cowan MAGAZINE DESIGN: Lancasters 020 8658 9975 www.lancasters.co.uk Printed on paper from sustainable forests. www.russellpress.com

16 JAN

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families south east - october 2015

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